Scientific studies have confirmed that L-Arginine is able to stimulate the release of human grow hormone (HGH). HGH is a pituitary hormone that signals fat cells to be burned and muscles to be built. As we approach the age of thirty the release of HGH slows considerably. It is hoped that “hard to lose” groups – people over 30 and overweight individuals with slow metabolisms will benefit from HGH release as an approach to weight control. Perhaps even greater importance of growth hormone is its ability to improve the body’s resistance to disease by stimulating the immune system. Growth hormone acts on the thymus gland to help it process T-cell effectors and B-cell lymphocytes. T-cells and B-cells are the major components of your body’s immune system; they selectively engulf and destroy invading viruses, bacteria and foreign chemicals. This effect of arginine retards the growth of cancerous tumors, and may benefit those suffering from AIDS and other malignant diseases that suppress the immune system. It is also very good for liver disorders such as cirrhosis and fatty liver; it aids in liver detoxification by neutralizing ammonia. Seminal fluid contains arginine. Studies suggest that sexual maturity may be delayed by arginine deficiency, implying that arginine is useful in treating sterility in men. It is found in high concentration in the skin and connective tissues, making it helpful for healing and repair of damaged tissue. Arginine is a component of collagen and aids in building new bone and tendon cells; scar tissues which form during wound healing are made up of collagen, which is rich in arginine. L-Arginine helps to support healthy cardiovascular function, as well as to increase exercise capacity and endurance. Supplemental dosages of 6 to 8 grams L-Arginine per day are considered safe. Although available in food, it is not released quickly enough as the food is digested to stimulate secretion of growth hormone from the pituitary. The supplemental doses taken on an empty stomach will arrive at the blood-brain barrier without competition. Then growth hormone secretion will be stimulated. L-arginine supplement should be avoided by children, pregnant or lactating women. Persons with schizophrenia should avoid amounts over 30 milligrams daily. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have a kidney disorder, human herpes virus, sickle cell anemia, or if you are taking prescription medication. Discontinue use if you have gout, and if you have decreased platelet count, elevated blood-urea-nitrogen, elevated serum creatine, elevated serum creatinine, and/or if you have delayed menses. Do not use if you have had a myocardial infarction, if you have asthma, if you are pregnant or breast feeding or if you have a hypersensitivity to L-arginine. L-Arginine may cause skin irritation. Recommended Dosage as per Health Canada Label Claims–Adults: Take 2 capsules 3 times daily on an empty stomach, or as directed by your health care practitioner. If you suffer from cardiovascular disease, consult your health-care practitioner for use beyond 6 months.